The Thunder’s largest margin of victory over San Antonio came on Dec. 17, 2012, where Oklahoma City prevailed by a score of 107-93 (14-point margin of victory). Meanwhile, the Thunder’s largest margin of defeat (39 points) vs. the Spurs occurred during a 130-91 loss on March 25, 2015.

THUNDER INJURY REPORT

Andre Roberson (ruptured patellar tendon) is out for the season.

Terrance Ferguson (concussion) is out.

NEXT UP

Next week, Oklahoma City will play the Kings, Hawks and Clippers before playing in Toronto for an early noon tip on Sunday, March 18.

WHAT’S IN A SPURS NAME

A group of San Antonio investors purchased the Dallas Chaparrals from the American Basketball Association in 1973 and decided to hold a public contest to rename the team.

Five thousand entries with over 500 names were submitted.

After reconsidering their first decision to call the team the Aztecs (several teams already used that name), the judges (investors and local press representatives) settled on Spurs.

It may have just been a coincidence that one of the team’s main investors, Red McCombs, was born in Spur, Texas.

Three Keys to the Game

Defense

While the Thunder have allowed a ton of points since the loss of Andre Roberson, Oklahoma City needs to step up and find a way to limit San Antonio offensively. The Spurs are only 7-18 when they’re held under 100 points. Oklahoma City for all what is worth is 19-5 when holding their opponent under the century mark. Oklahoma City hasn’t held back-to-back opponents under 100 since Jan. 15-17 when they beat the Kings and Lakers.

Rebounding

Rebounding is so imperative to the Thunder. Oklahoma City is 27-10 this season when they out rebound their opponents. Oklahoma City though, a poor 10-19 when they don’t. It’s like the three-point shooting. Oklahoma City was out rebounded by the Spurs, and that contributed to the loss. They have to do a better job tonight.

Turnovers

Oklahoma City needs to figure out their turnover situation. They’re averaging 16.3 turnovers per game since the All-Star Break (27th). The Spurs are getting out into transition more than ever since the break, scoring 19.3 points per game on the break (8th). San Antonio is 24-10 when they win the turnover battle. Oklahoma City has to tonight to have a chance.